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Sleep
Sleep in the first thousand days of life is a fundamental building block for the physical, emotional and cognitive development of the newborn, and also plays a crucial role in strengthening the immune and neurological systems. But it is not just a matter of health but a unique opportunity to create a deep and loving bond with the parents.
In the first few months, infants need around 14-17 hours of sleep per day, a quantity that tends to decrease slightly over time. Between the first and second year, it drops to 11-14 hours a day, continuing to maintain a good balance between night sleep and daytime naps. It is completely normal for newborns to wake up every two to three hours to be fed and not to distinguish between day and night, a difference they will learn over time.
However, sleeping long hours is not sufficient. The quality of sleep must be good. Deep, uninterrupted sleep is essential for growth and regeneration. Parents should take care not to disturb their baby's rest by creating a peaceful environment that is not too bright or noisy and avoiding the use of electronic devices, especially in the evening.
Sleep safety is another key concern. The best position is always sleeping on the back, on a firm flat surface, to minimise the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). It is also recommended that infants sleep in the same room as their parents, at least for the first six months, in their own cot, in order to create a safe environment and encourage nighttime breastfeeding, making it easier for both mum and dad.
The environment also plays a crucial role. The room should have an ideal temperature of between 18 and 20 degrees Celsius, humidity between 55 and 60% and be aired at least three times a day for 20 minutes. The cot must be kept free of objects that could pose a risk, such as pillows, heavy blankets and soft toys, and kept away from heat sources, windows and air conditioners. Babies should not be left to sleep in the parents' bed or on soft surfaces, like sofas and armchairs, as this increases the risk of accidents.
Finally, it is important to emphasise that sleep is not simply a physiological need but also an opportunity for parents to reflect on how important it is to take care of themselves, in order to be able to best support their child’s growth.